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ADHD Diagnosis – Getting the Right One From the NHS In order for people to receive an accurate diagnosis of ADHD, the NHS requires a thorough assessment. The BBC investigation revealed that a few private clinics might be handing an unreliable diagnosis or prescribing the wrong medication. A valid ADHD diagnosis is based on the symptoms that are severe, their duration, and impact. The clinician will interview the patient and review the medical, psychiatric, family and personal history. Diagnosis For adults who feel they have symptoms that may be associated with ADHD and are seeking a diagnosis, it is the first step in finding a treatment and gaining control over their lives. Whether they have an instinct that they might be suffering from the condition, or have had a family or friend member suggest they might be suffering from it, obtaining the right diagnosis can allow them to find the treatments and support to manage their ADHD symptoms effectively. The first thing that patients should do is discuss their concerns with a GP. Tell them about your symptoms and how they affect your daily routine. The GP will refer them to an experienced mental health professional with experience in diagnosing ADHD. The specialist should be a skilled psychiatrist who has undergone specific training in the field. This is essential because it lets the psychiatrist be certain that they are using the right criteria to determine ADHD. The psychiatrist will ask the patient to bring their partner or close family members and acquaintances who are familiar with them. They will also have to consider the patient's medical history and mental health history, starting from childhood. They will also have to consider the severity of the symptoms and how they have impacted the patient's lifestyle. There is no brain scan or blood test that can confirm an ADHD diagnosis The psychiatrist will have to evaluate all the available information. If the psychiatrist doesn't think that the patient is meeting all the criteria required for an ADHD diagnosis the psychiatrist will explain why. It could be that the patient didn't give enough details about their difficulties or that another condition better explains their behavior than ADHD. Alternatively, it might be that the doctor believes that the patient's issues may be due to a different cause and not the condition. Certain people find it difficult to get a proper diagnosis because of the prejudices espoused by certain health experts. This can be especially the case if they are a person of colour or assigned a female birth, or are not an English speaker. However there is an increasing awareness of the issue and the NHS is working to address the issue. Assessment If you're concerned that you might be suffering from ADHD you should get an assessment from a medical care professional who is experienced in conducting these tests. You can ask your personal physician for a recommendation or check at local universities' hospitals or medical schools to determine the professionals who are certified to conduct an ADHD assessment for adults. You could also seek a referral from an ADHD support group in your region. The diagnosis of ADHD is determined by the number, severity, and duration of symptoms in specific areas of life. These can include work, school and relationships. There are adhd assessment private when you may face problems that result in you not performing in school or work as well as difficulties in maintaining and forming relationships, or being forgetful or unorganized. It is essential to address these issues and not be afraid to confront criticism. There are a variety of healthcare professionals that can conduct an ADHD assessment from GP's to consultants psychiatrists. However, to be able to give a legally recognized diagnosis of ADHD, it must be done by a qualified Psychiatrist, or Prescriber Qualified Specialist Nurse. This is because only a psychiatrist can prescribe medication for the treatment of ADHD. You are typically questioned during an ADHD evaluation, and it is important to bring along a family member for support or to show evidence. It is also beneficial to note down your symptoms and how they have impacted your life. The doctor will ask questions to collect information about your history and how you are doing. They will also examine your body to determine if you have any medical conditions that may cause the symptoms of ADHD. You can also get an adult adhd diagnosis through the NHS however, it could take a long time due to the logjammed NHS waiting lists. Some people find it easier to pay out of their own pocket for private assessments and treatments through the 'Right To Choose option. It is important to keep in mind that the quality and price of private healthcare can differ dramatically. Medication If you have been struggling with symptoms of ADHD in adulthood it is a good idea to have a full and thorough evaluation done. This will enable you to receive the correct medication and help you require to manage your symptoms. There are many private companies who offer this service. If you decide to use one of them, it is important to research the reputation of the psychiatrist, their education and experience managing neurodevelopmental disorders. In recent months, a variety of prominent people have come out about their struggles with ADHD. For instance, Great British Bake Off host Sue Perkins was diagnosed in her 50s and stated that the diagnosis “made everything seem more rational”. However, despite an increase in awareness, NHS waiting lists remain jam-packed with people wanting to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment. To avoid this, doctors frequently are reluctant to refer patients to specialist services in order to obtain a private ADHD diagnosis. This is largely because they don't have the time or resources, and in some instances, they might not be able find an expert clinician in neurodevelopmental disorders. In certain areas, this is exacerbated by the fact that NHS staff may be assigned other requirements such as mental health assessments. There is also a perception that some private companies offering ADHD assessments are over-diagnosing adults with the condition, which could cause severe harm to some people. The BBC Panorama programme raised this issue and there is a pressing need to increase accessibility to specialist ADHD tests. If you've been diagnosed as having ADHD, you can treat it using a combination therapy for behavioural issues and medication. Stimulant drugs like amphetamine and methylphenidate can be employed to increase concentration and productivity, whereas non-stimulants with a slower onset like atomoxetine are beneficial for improving attention and impulse control. Some patients opt for the behavioural approach and do not require medication. However, for those who require medication, a post-diagnostic plan of care could be put together at Priory. describes it will include a thorough report as well as a titration for the final dose, which can be shared with your GP. Post-diagnostic treatment A diagnosis of ADHD may result in significant human and financial costs. It is important to provide a psychiatric evaluation and treatment program for all adults suffering from ADHD. This should include medication as well as psychological and practical assistance and family therapy if appropriate. This should include both workplace and family education on how to better assist and manage an adult suffering from ADHD. The first step involves an interview with a mental healthcare professional who is qualified to assess ADHD or other disorders. Patients should bring a list of their symptoms and any other mental health issues prior to their first appointment. The interview will cover the patient's medical, psychiatric, and family background. It will also look at how the ADHD symptoms affect the individual's daily life and relationships. In this process the doctor will ensure that the symptoms match the criteria for ADHD as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The symptom must appear in two different settings (home or work) of the individual's daily life. It should affect their normal functioning and cause significant distress or impairment. This could take the form a difficulty in securing a job, dealing with marriage or finances or school issues, or their overall quality of life. Psychologists and psychiatrists are among the professionals who can perform an ADHD assessment. Psychologists are trained in the function of the brain, but they are unable to prescribe medications. They are able to provide counseling. Psychologists are qualified to diagnose and treat ADHD, and can offer medications if necessary. If the Psychiatrist decides that the patient with ADHD does need medication they will write a prescription and supply it to the local pharmacy. This is done under the supervision and direction of the Psychiatrist. It should be completed within three months after the private assessment. This allows the patient to fully adjust to their final dosage of medication. If the GP agrees to continue NHS prescribing following the private ADHD assessment, the Psychiatrist will present them with a an extensive report and treatment recommendations and will draft a Shared Care Agreement with the GP.